April isn’t just about Easter eggs and cooler mornings—it’s also April Falls Month, a time to raise awareness about one of the biggest health risks many people face as they age: falls.
The stats are pretty eye-opening. In Australia, one in three people over the age of 65 will experience a fall each year. But here’s the good news—most falls are preventable, and a few simple changes at home can make a world of difference.
As physios, we see firsthand the impact a fall can have. Beyond bumps and bruises, it can really shake someone’s confidence. That’s why this month is the perfect time to do a quick safety check and make sure your home (or a loved one’s) is set up to support safe, steady movement.
Why Falls Happen
Before we jump into solutions, it’s worth knowing the common culprits behind most falls:
- Poor balance or leg strength
- Slippery floors or rugs that slide around
- Clutter in walkways
- Poor lighting, especially at night
- Footwear that’s not supportive
- Rushing to the bathroom in the dark
Sound familiar? You’re not alone—but you can take action.
Fall-Proofing Your Home: Room by Room
Let’s break it down with a quick home safety checklist:
Living Areas
- Clear walkways—keep floors free of cords, shoes, or low furniture
- Remove loose rugs or secure them with non-slip backing
- Ensure light switches are easy to reach when entering the room
- Add motion-sensor lights for evening visibility
Bedroom
- Keep a lamp or light switch within easy reach of the bed
- Use nightlights in hallways or on the path to the bathroom
- Store frequently used items within arm’s reach to avoid climbing
Bathroom
- Install grab rails near the toilet and in the shower
- Use a non-slip bath mat or shower chair if needed
- Keep the floor dry and consider a raised toilet seat for easier transfers
Kitchen
- Store heavy items like pots or appliances at waist height
- Clean up spills straight away to avoid slippery patches
- Use a sturdy step stool with handrails if reaching higher shelves
Footwear
- Wear well-fitting shoes with good grip around the house—skip the floppy slippers or socks on tiles!
How Physio Can Help
Falls prevention isn’t just about your surroundings—it’s also about you. As physios, we can help you:
- Improve your balance and strength
- Work on coordination and reaction time
- Assess your risk of falls and give tailored strategies to reduce it
- Boost your confidence if you’ve had a fall before
We even offer balance assessments and home safety advice if you’re not sure where to start.
Let’s Take the Fear Out of Falling
Falling doesn’t have to be part of getting older. With the right strategies and support, you can stay active, independent, and confident in your own space.
So, this April Falls Month, take five minutes to look around your home—or check in with a loved one. Small changes today could prevent a big injury tomorrow.
And if you’d like help building your balance or making your home safer, we’re always here to support you.
Need a fall risk assessment or advice on safe movement at home? Book an appointment – we’re here to help you stay steady.